When Arch Enemy welcomed German export Angela Gossow to the fold, the band’s popularity skyrocketed. Call it coincidence, call it fate, but Angela’s savage vocal delivery, which is reminiscent of Carcass’ Jeff Walker, brought an unholy union to the band featuring Carcass axeman Michael Amott.

While some attribute Arch Enemy’s sudden burst of success to Angela’s deadly good looks, those who know the music know better than this. The melodic death metal group was given an extra edge with Gossow’s voice and menacing stage presence. Her mid-range gutturals are a warm welcome from the deeper-than-thou mentality of many extreme metal vocalists and help to separate Arch Enemy from the rest of the heap.

Update: Angela Gossow has left Arch Enemy, with former Agonist vocalist Alissa White-Gluz taking her place.

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